KNEEZE is a stowable knee protection system designed to integrate directly with workwear. Rather than requiring workers to continuously wear conventional knee pads, the system transitions between two states: a low-profile stowed position for walking, standing, and everyday movement, and a deployed position that places cushioning and protection over the knee when needed.

The system was developed to combine the protection of a dedicated knee pad with the convenience of an integrated wearable solution, keeping protection accessible without creating unnecessary bulk or restricting movement throughout the day.

Interwoven Design began by evaluating the existing KNEEZE prototype, identifying opportunities to improve comfort, alignment, weight, deployment, adjustability, and cleanability. Research expanded into kneeling ergonomics, knee anatomy, competitive products, patents, materials, cushioning, and attachment methods.

These findings established a central challenge: provide meaningful protection while kneeling while keeping the system comfortable and unobtrusive when not in use.

Interwoven Design explored multiple approaches through rapid sketches and physical mockups, ultimately developing three directions: Elastic Hinge, Articulated Knee, and Side Wrap. Each investigated a different way for the pad to deploy, stow, and interact with the body.

The Articulated Knee was selected for further development. Its shaped construction allowed the pad to contour around the leg while transitioning between a compact stowed position and an active kneeling position.

When not needed, the protective pad sits close to the leg in its stowed position. To deploy it, the user releases the pad and moves it down over the knee, positioning the cushioning and protective surface for kneeling. After use, the handle allows the pad to be pulled back upward with one hand. Magnets assist alignment while strategically placed hook-and-loop secures the system in its stowed position.

The final development phase focused on resolving the details discovered through testing. Interwoven Design refined attachment locations, magnet strength, rivets, foam thickness, handle length, and frame geometry to improve stability, durability, and ease of use.

The resulting prototype brings the garment interface, protective pad, cushioning, magnetic alignment, and deployment mechanism together as one system. The design was then translated into technical documentation and specifications to support future manufacturing.

Interwoven Design developed the Twilight Terrain direction to give KNEEZE a rugged but refined visual language appropriate for professional workwear.

Workwear-inspired colors, technical materials, and contrasting details were explored to communicate durability while highlighting functional touchpoints. The aesthetic was developed alongside the construction so the product’s visual character reflected how it performs.